Who had the biggest influence on your career & why?

Dr. Isabella Cunningham. She was Chair of the Department of Advertising when I was at the University of Texas. She taught a course called Psychology of Advertising and it was my favorite class. We became friends when I was appointed to the Communications Student Council. Her husband, William, later became Chancellor of the University of Texas System.

What drove your decision to get into the marketing business?

Darrin Stevens – the All American Ad Man. He was Account Executive, Creative Director, and Copywriter. He probably placed media too. What more could you want?

What are you most proud of – your finest hour?

My two sons – Brandon and Matthew. Both Eagle Scouts. Both great kids. My only concern, they are both in college studying Communications!

Share a great client story.

At a previous agency, we often had inner-office contests to name our clients' new products. When KFC introduced their new chicken strips, I came up with the winning name – "Colonel's Krispy Strips." My prize? $25 worth of KFC coupons!

What is your method for developing creative solutions for your clients?

Use your client's products. You can better connect with the consumer, because you are one. Through the years, I have supported my client's brands including buying newspapers, computers, an air conditioner, electricity, chicken, groceries, and even a house!

In your opinion, what makes a great brand?

A great brand is universal. Go anywhere in the world and people recognize the McDonald's arches or Exxon's interlocking XX's.

What driving career goals are you still pursuing?

Becoming a millionaire. Oh wait, I'm in advertising.

Name at least one talent that you wish you could master?

Singing. When I was in sixth grade, I signed up for choir. On the first day of class, the teacher suggested I try band – so I did. My first instrument was the trombone. I was too little to hold it up so I switched to the coronet.

What food helps you think creatively?

Miller Lite. Sometimes a little too creatively.

What is your favorite sports team & why?

The University of Texas Longhorns. As one of the highest scholastically accredited public universities in the nation, the Longhorns excel in nearly every sport year after year.

Name your biggest frustration.

The University of Texas Longhorns.

Tell us about your pets.

My red heeler Chuy lives up to her name. So far (she's still a puppy) she's chewed up the back door, a window seal, 2 lawn chairs, a grill cover, pipe insulation and numerous real "chew" toys.

What is your all-time favorite TV program (on-air or not)?

The Monkees – Monday nights at 6:30 on NBC. Were they "America's answer to the Beatles?" Definitely not. But they had a major influence on music videos and MTV. "We're the young generation, and we've got something to say."

When you're not working, what do you do for fun?

I love to camp and go hiking. One of my most memorable experiences was backpacking to the top of Mount Shavano in Colorado. It's known as a "fourteener" with an altitude of 14,229 feet. It is one of the most physical and mental feats I've ever accomplished. And, I did it twice, with each of my sons.

Name your three favorite websites.

Google.com
Weather.com
DMN3.com